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Memphis PD holding 12K untested rape kits

To test them and get rid of them, the department will have to pay more than $4.5 million. The money isn't the concern to the victims; several are worried the police weren't investigating cases and finding the closure for victims.

Memphis PD holding 12K untested rape kits

Memphis police are coming forward with a revelation that's angering thousands of victims in the city.

Police say they have more than 12,000 untested rape kits in their possession.

To test them and get rid of them, the department will have to pay more than $4.5 million. The money isn't the concern to the victims; several are worried the police weren't investigating cases and finding the closure for victims. They say crucial information that could have led to a rapists' capture sat on the police department's shelves.

While victims are upset, they are thankful the police department is taking responsibility.

"I want to applaud the police department for not sweeping it under the rug. I am very grateful," said sexual assault survivor Terry Burks.

Meanwhile, the district attorney says there are several reasons why labs never tested the kits. She also defended the department and its actions.

"It's not as if this office and law enforcement have been sitting around not working, not holding offenders accountable," said Amy Weirich.

The reason she says some rape tests went untested is because victims picked out the suspect in a line up and closed the case.

Money also posed a problem. TBI could only handle so many cases, and private labs cost significant money.

The department says it is now testing every rape kit thanks to some new funding.